Releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel good and diminish pain. If you have real aches or pains, the morphine-like effect from the endorphins works by blocking pain signals from the brain causing a decrease in discomfort.
Increased endorphins, serotonin and dopamine hormones is a common benefit gained through massage. Endorphins, serotonin and dopamine are positive hormones that circulate around the body. Endorphins, serotonin and dopamine can give a person a sense of well-being and reduce anxiety.
Massage stretches muscles transversely as well as lengthways, which allows scar tissue, adhesions and fascia surrounding muscles to loosen or break down - this can both help in muscle repair as well as releasing muscle tension.
Often accumulated in the muscles after intense exercise or prolonged tension, lactic acid can lead to stiffness and soreness. Massage helps to release and flush out lactic acid, thereby easing muscle pain and improving mobility.
Feeling unwell after a deep massage is common due to the body's response to toxin release, immune system activation, and muscle recovery. Symptoms like fatigue, mild fever, or nausea usually pass within 24-48 hours. Staying hydrated, resting, and eating light meals can help speed up recovery.
Many people think that because massage is a natural therapy that it can't do any harm, but this is a classic example of where it absolutely can. Many therapists believe that by relieving muscle tension with a deep tissue massage, they will release emotions and therefore help to heal trauma.
Your urine may become darker and smelly due to the stimulation of the kidneys. Your urination frequency may also increase throughout the day because your body is ridding itself of all the excess toxins. Lastly, you may feel sore and fatigued following your session.
Release of Joint Tension: Sometimes, the popping sound signifies the release of tension within the joint. This can lead to an immediate feeling of relief and increased mobility, as the joint returns to its natural position and the surrounding muscles relax.
Lactic Acid:
Lactic acid is a metabolic byproduct that accumulates in muscles during intense physical activity or stress. It can lead to muscle soreness and fatigue. When you receive a massage, the pressure applied to your muscles helps disperse and eliminate lactic acid, reducing post-exercise soreness.
Massage therapy techniques can help to relieve, reduce or even prevent muscle knots. Deep tissue massage or sports massage techniques work on the muscles that are tight or have the knots. Trigger point massage can be firm and specific pressure to the areas of restriction or “knots” and cause release of that knot.
1. What are the general massage frequency guidelines? It is generally recommended to get a massage once a month to maintain the benefits of relaxation and stress relief. However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent sessions, especially if they have specific health concerns or physical discomfort.
Light pressure stimulates the skin; stronger pressure improves circulation. A combination of light and more intense pressure creates a soothing, pain-relieving massage.
Relaxation Response: Deep tissue massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering the relaxation response. This shift from the fight-or-flight mode to a state of calm and relaxation allows the body to release emotional tension and find balance.
After a massage your body will be firing on all cylinders and you'll want to provide the necessary fuel. Massage. The release of the 'feel good' endorphins will have you feeling a natural high.
The physical manipulation in massage has two major physical effects: Increase in blood and lymph circulation. Relaxation and normalization of the soft tissue (muscle, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments), which releases nerves and deeper connective tissues.
This myofascial release has a comparable sensation to being rocked by your mother when you were a baby. It causes a pleasant wave sensation to travel throughout the body. It is, in fact, a relaxing experience. That wave infiltrates the restricted areas to allow for softening.
The back is one of the most requested areas in any massage. It's where many people carry stress, tension, and discomfort from sitting, standing, or physical activity. Therapists focus on the upper, middle, and lower back to release tightness and improve mobility. The neck and shoulders are another high-tension zone.
Potential Causes of Crunchy Muscles
These knots are areas of muscle fibers that have become tightly contracted and can feel like small, firm lumps within the muscle. When you press on them or move the muscle, they might produce a sensation akin to crunchiness.
Swedish massage is arguably considered the most popular massage type, appearing on a majority of spa menus worldwide. This Western massage utilizes the following techniques—effleurage (stroking), friction (rubbing), petrissage (kneading) and tapotement (rhythmic choppings)—for a truly relaxing spa treatment experience.
One of the main reasons why massages feel so good is because they help to release endorphins, which are our body's natural "feel-good" chemicals.
Massage stimulates peristalsis (wavelike contractions that moves food through the intestines), decreases bowel transit time and increases the frequency of bowel movements. Massage also reduces tension in muscles in your lower back that can cause discomfort and pain.
Lymphatic drainage into the urinary tract, or chyluria, is another source of white urine discoloration.
The temperature of the water can cause your muscles to tense up, which can negate the benefits of massage therapy. The heat can also increase the risk of dehydration. Inflammation may also occur if you are already feeling sore after the massage. Wait at least 1-2 hours before showering or taking a bath.